Kumbh Mela Duty for Credits? Pune University’s Proposal Draws Fire From Student Groups

Pune, 6th February 2026: Savitribai Phule Pune University’s (SPPU) proposal to award two academic credits to students who volunteer at the upcoming Nashik Kumbh Mela has sparked strong reactions from student organisations, drawing the university into fresh controversy.

The proposal, cleared by the university’s Management Council and awaiting final approval, aims to provide students with exposure to large-scale event management, discipline and public service. However, student bodies have opposed the move, arguing that academic institutions should not link educational credits to participation in religious events.

A delegation of the Republican Students’ Sena met Vice-Chancellor Dr Suresh Gosavi and Pro Vice-Chancellor Dr Parag Kalkar, objecting to what they described as indirect religious promotion through educational institutions. “Using academic credits to compensate for administrative manpower shortages is wrong and could undermine the secular nature of education,” said Akshay Jain, general secretary, Maharashtra Pradesh Yuvak.

Republican Students’ Sena state president Vivek Bansode said that while the Constitution guarantees religious freedom, “participation in such events cannot be imposed on students,” adding that involvement in religious processions or festivals has traditionally been voluntary.

Aam Aadmi Party spokesperson Mukund Kirdat also criticised the proposal, saying that “participation in religious activities does not enhance students’ academic skills and should remain purely voluntary, without academic incentives.”

Defending the move, SPPU Management Council member Sagar Vaidya said it should not be viewed only through a religious lens. “In line with the National Education Policy, this is part of training and experiential learning. There is no compulsion, and similar opportunities can be extended for other large national events as well,” he said.

After the protests, the university assured student organisations that the proposal would be placed before the Management Council again for a detailed review before a final decision is taken.